Steven's POV
After a day of waiting, nothing has changed in the state of the Gem Slayer's receded form. Everything's been quiet and tense ever since the Gem was here. Even the Gems had their guard up since his arrival, I mean, what's the big hassle about him? Yeah, he looks dangerous and he's going to do a lot of things to finish his task, but...the look in his eyes...he was in pain...so much pain.
Pearl then sat beside me and Amethyst lay herself just a few inches away from the Gem. She groaned and she said;
Amethyst: Ugh...this dude is taking too long! Is he even trying to reform?!
Pearl: Be patient Amethyst, some gems require time to perfect their form unlike you. But...but this is a good thing... considering it's him.
Amethyst: Alright Pearl, geez. What's the big deal about him? I mean, he seems cool? Albeit the fact that he DID try to kill us when we first made contact, but still, he looks cool.
Pearl: Right, I forgot that you didn't get to learn Basic Orientation back in Homeworld. Well, I guess little old me will have to explain;
Pearl cleared her throat to talk, then a projection of the Gem, Painite was shown in front of us.
Pearl: This, is Painite. The Gem Slayer. He represents the Power, Might, Determination, and above all, Rage of the Gemkind. He singlehandedly won the Great Reclaim in just mere 8 months. For...for a lack of a better word, he's a Warmonger. After the Berserk Incident 6,000 years ago, he's...become more distant.
Steven: Why? Did he do something wrong?
Pearl: ...A lot of things...yes. But...he was, let's just say, mistreated, by the common folk. Though, he didn't care for what they say or think about him, but something else made him snap. We....we don't know what made him lash out. He's...he's what you call, in Earth Terms, The Angel of Death.
Steven: I don't get it, what did he do?
Pearl: It's...let's not go there, okay? He wouldn't want you hearing what he did... especially to other Gems...
Then, just in time, the gem on the table started glowing. Me and the other gems backed away from the Gem, and Pearl pulled me in behind her in a defensive manner. Pearl summoned her spear, Amethyst her whip, and Garnet her gauntlets.
Garnet: Whatever comes out of that...thing! Never falter, even if we are facing him head on!
I summoned my shield just in case, and a few seconds of the Gem floating mid air, a silhouette of the Gem Slayer showed itself, and his wings spread out like a soaring eagle would, he opened his eyes, and it was the same bloodshot red eyes that struck fear into the hearts of many people he has faced, and will face. This is the first time seeing those eyes, but...why does it feel like I've seen them many times before?
Before we could make a move, the Gem Slayer immediately flew towards us, and he started flying towards me, in a threatening way. Oh poo.
Your POV
I reverted back to my physical form, and I looked down in front of me to see the same Rebels who managed to stop me, that even the strongest of the Praetorian Guards are never able to do, I say that they're lucky since I WAS being an underestimating prick. But none of that matters now, what matters, is that fleshbag behind them, the Half-Breed. If I hold him hostage, that's what will make them talk.
Then, with haste, I immediately flew after the Half-Breed, and I pushed the rebels who were guarding him away and I grabbed him by the shirt. I immediately used War Smith and summoned a sword and pointed it at his neck.
Y/N: All of you better start talking, or you'll lose more than what you think!
Steven: W-wait! Let's just-
Y/N: Shut up, Half-Breed! Know your place!
Pearl: Steven! Let him go, you murderer!
Y/N: Oh how damn original, come back when you have other things to call me! You have 5 damn seconds to tell me what I want before I cut this Half-Breed to pieces!
Steven: No! Please, let's not-
Peridot: Wait! Don't kill him, please! I'm right here!
I then saw a small green Gem, a Peridot, a defective one, show herself, and she kneeled in front of me.
Peridot: Please, Gem Slayer! I am your target, just please don't hurt him! I-I'll come with you, just please don't hurt him!
Steven: Peridot, don't-
Y/N: At least one of you has a damned properly thinking Gem. Very well, but I still have other two targets, keep talking.
Steven: U-uh...that's the thing, we don't know where they are!
Y/N: Damn it all. *sigh* Let's start again, shall we?
I dropped to the wooden floors of...whatever the Hell this place is, and I summoned a single clone to hold this Half-Breed "Steven" in place, as I walk to one of the tables and I face all of the gem rebels in front of me.
Y/N: Tell me where you last seen them. Both of my targets, Jasper, and the Ruby Squad sent here. Now. And if you lie to me, I will come back for you, I have all the time I need in this damned, wretched and spiteful universe to come back for you...for ALL of you. Now start talking.
Timeskip
Y/N: Let me get this straight...Jasper is "Corrupted" and is now inside a bubble? (Mind): What the Hell made these Gems to go insane?
Garnet: Yes, she's currently under and she's safe, from hurting others and hurting herself.
Y/N: And what of the Rubies?
Amethyst: What about 'em?
Y/N: Their whereabouts, you overcooked foot soldier! Where are they and what happened to them?!
Steven: They're in space!
Y/N: What?
Steven: In the moon, we were...I was held hostage, and I had to open the doors and shoot them out into Space.
Y/N (Mind): That's one Hell of a power move, kid, I think I've been underestimating this little guy too much. (Normal): Great, now the chances of me are slim like a damn thin strip of mica.
Steven: Uhh...sorry?
Y/N: Now that I know what happened to the other two, I think it's safe to say that just this once, I'll let things slide. Keep the corrupted, but I'm taking the Peridot.
I said as I then proceeded to make my way towards the now shivering Peridot, then the fusion, stood in front of me, and blocked my path.
Garnet: You may have allowed us to keep Jasper in our Temple, but we're not going to give her away just like that, whether you struck a deal or not.
Y/N: I don't give a damn about what you think, I'm taking Peridot with me, and you're not going to stop me.
I said as I then summoned my gauntlets, and I grabbed her by the arm and pulled her away from me, and finally letting me pass through to finally take Peridot back with me back to Homeworld.
I was about to grab Peridot but was met with a whip in my hand, and I turned my head to the side and saw that the Amethyst used her whip to prevent me from laying a finger on her.
Y/N: This again?
Amethyst: You're NOT going to lay your hands on my bestie!
Steven: Guys! Please stop fighting!
I groaned and I pull my hand back and the Amethyst unwrapped the whip from my hand.
Y/N: Make it quick, Half-Breed. My patience is wearing thin.
Steven: Look, Painite, I know how Homeworld has treated you, I know you've suffered for...as long as you know, believe me, I've been in times that I myself have suffered too-
Y/N: Don't.
Steven: Huh?
Y/N: Don't even try to put your foot in my shoes. There are things you should never know about me, and things that you shouldn't know about me.
Steven: That's what Pearl said-
Y/N: That's what they said! What ALL of them said! But they NEVER, and I mean it, NEVER listen to me. I've done things, and I have seen things. All of the things that happened tome, opened my eyes. Now I ask myself, why? Why am I fighting for the people who sees me as a monster? While on the other hand, the Diamonds, praise me for being perfect, the perfect being that they have been wanting to create. At this very moment, I have already lost the path, and the cost of me being a good soldier has already taken it's toll on me.
Steven: Then stay here! We'll show you around, and you will see that you don't have to fight for them anymore! You'll see your worth here, and you'll know that in the end, someone will care about you!
Y/N: You think it's THAT easy? No. They will come after me. After us. To ALL of us, and they will reduce this planet into nothing but a rock floating about in space for all of eternity!
Steven: And if that happens, we'll face it together, till the end!
I fell silent, as I then thought to myself, he isn't wrong. I could stay here...start again and...possibly live the life I yearned for when I was still young. But there is still much to be done, both on this planet, and in Homeworld, so I must decide. I either remain here, a chance where I could finally live the life I have always fought and dreamt of...or I return to that Hellhole I call...home, and finish my job...I only have one thing in mind at the moment...and that is to see...if this Old Rock is even still worth something before this place is blown to Oblivion.
Y/N: A day.
Steven: W-what?
Y/N: You have ONE day to show me what this planet has to offer for someone like me. Then, and only then, will I be able to judge if I want to stay here...or go back to Homeworld. Make it quick, my patience is getting thinner by the second.
Steven: O-okay. Follow me, then! I'll show you around town! Come on!
The Halfling, Steven, then proceeded to walk out the door of...whatever the Hell this place is. Leaving these Rebels to themselves, they were skeptical, of me of course.
Pearl: Is....is this a good idea?
Amethyst: Duh! Of course it is! Steven distracting him while we plan to put him in a bubble! Right, Garnet? Garnet?
Garnet:... We're...*groan* we're not putting him in a bubble.
Pearl: What?! Why in the world would you think of that?! That's THE Gem Slayer himself!
Garnet: Can we even put him back in one? We both know what he can do, and we just got lucky that we outnumbered him and he got distracted. But one things for sure;
Garnet turned to the door leading outside, having a look of determination and courage, and above all, hope for Steven.
Garnet: It will turn the tides of this battle against Homeworld, if he sided with us.
Timeskip
After a few minutes of following this..."Steven" we eventually came across a building that seemed to be familiar to him. This place seems...peaceful....most of the time I think. But remembering the times of attempted attacks in this planet, and in this same spot, I don't think they get too much peace and quiet for too long.
We eventually get close to the same building that I have mentioned, and it looked like...I have no idea what to make of this. But it does have a sign made out of metal alloy and the sign is spelled "It's A Wash!" Steven then got close to the building, and he started calling out to a person called "Dad". Whoever the Hell that is.
Steven: Dad! You there?
???: Oh hey, Schtu-ball! Come to ask some life-advices from your old man?
I saw a man, at least his late 30's or early 40's, has a tank top with tan lines on his arms and wearing what seems to be a torn pants. The torn part is just below where the shins are, effectively turning it into shorts.
???: Oh and who's this? Another Gem I assume? This one looks...odd.
Y/N (Mind): "This one"? *chuckles* Such insolence for one that's so fragile as dust.
???: Ah, right. My name's Greg Universe! Owner of "It's A Wash!" Nice to meet you?
Y/N: Painite. Painite of the Yellow Court. Pleased to meet you, Mr. Universe.
Steven: If you don't see it, he's actually a guy! How cool is that? A Gem that's a guy!
Y/N: Not really an impressive feat, but I appreciate that you think that it is "cool".
Steven: I'm showing him around town for the day, so I thought I'd start with you! What better way to learn about Earth than with music?
Y/N: I've heard of it before, we have music back in Homeworld too...just... straight up sounds like it came from a dying bird.
Greg: That's rough. But hey! At least your here now!
Y/N: I get the idea of what "Music" is, I do not require an explanation. I could be doing something so much more important right now than doing this. However, I do appreciate the time and effort you have allotted for me.
Greg: Eh, it's no problem. Welcome to Earth, then! Just in case you wanna play a song or two, here, have my guitar!
He said as he went to what seems to be a storage unit of some sorts, and he grabbed a device which looked like it had a long neck, six strings and a broad surface where the other end of the strings are.
Along with a wiring and...what seems to be something like a speaker? An amplifier.
Greg: Threw in an amplifier too in case you need it.
Y/N: Much appreciated, Mr. Universe.
Steven: Come on! We still got a lot of places to go!
Y/N: You go on ahead, I'll follow.
Steven: But you said-
Y/N: I know what I said...just go.
Steven only let out a sigh and he started walking away, towards a shop perhaps. I turn my attention back to Greg, and I spoke to him in a grave and serious tone.
Y/N: Look, I know that you're a loving parent, you raised the kid by yourself and it must have been hard. And I admire that you support your son even if he goes on and do dangerous stuff. But this...this isn't just an adventure he's going to embark on...he's being dragged to a War that's lasted for 6,000 years, the one started by his own mother. So promise me...whatever happens to him...never, NEVER, take the path I have taken.
I then left Greg to himself, pondering what I meant when I said those words. I only put my hope in him now, that he doesn't do anything drastic if his son either changes...or he dies, which may cause him to go insane...how do I know? It's what I did...
Timeskip
Me and Steven arrived at this place called...Fish Pizza? Sounds nasty. Still gonna try it. He entered the said building and I followed him in. He went to a nearby table and he sat there happily kicking his legs in the air. I pulled out a chair and I sat there silently. How can someone be so young an already fight a war that was supposed to have been long gone by now? Perhaps I may never know....
???: Hey, Steven! What would it be today?
Steven: Oh, hi Jenny! I'll have, you know, the usual?
Huh, so that's her name.
Jenny: Of course! And what will you have sir- oh...H-hello!
Y/N: Greetings, hope I didn't terrify you with my presence.
Jenny: I-I uhh...i-its fine!
Y/N: Ah. Where are my manners? I am Painite, of the Yellow Court. Pleasure to meet you, Jenny.
Jenny: N-nice to m-m-meet you too, Painite! What will you have today?
Y/N: Hmm...well, since I am new here, might as well have what he's having.
I said as I pointed to Steven.
Y/N: He convinced me to give this place a chance, so I'll be going with his preferences.
Jenny: Coming right up, sit tight!
She said as she scrambles to the back of the kitchen. And she starts telling our order, and I just let out a sigh. I saw a glass of water in our table and I grabbed it and I just chugged it down. I looked at Steven, and I just said;
Y/N: What is it?
Steven: I thought you're new here?
Y/N: I am.
Steven: I thought Gems don't need sustenance or drinking water?
Y/N: I feel like doing it, leave me be.
Steven just sighed and he kept quiet. Eventually, another girl came to our table and handed us our order.
???: Well, here's your order! Enjoy!
Steven: Thanks, Kiki! By the way, meet Painite! He's new here!
Kiki: Oh, a new face in town! Ain't that nice?
Y/N: Greetings, Kiki. I'm Painite of the Yellow Court. Pleasure meeting you.
Kiki: *giggles* I like you, Y/N. I really wish there's more guys like you out there.
Y/N:...Trust me, you don't want that...
Kiki: Why not? You seem nice and cool.
Y/N: I have my reasons...and I know damn well than to let more people like myself isn't a good idea.
Kiki: *sigh* Ah well, whatever you say. Enjoy your pizza.
She then proceeded to walk back into he kitchen and I...fell silent. What would even happen if there were more like me? Not as a Gem Variant...but... personality-wise?
Steven: Aren't you gonna eat?
I got back to reality, and I held my head and let out a sigh. I grabbed a slice of this... Pizza. I took a sniff of it, and I caught a whiff of the yellow... substance in the damn thing. Damn it, this looks gross. I looked to Steven, and I see him with stars in his eyes, waiting for me to give this thing a try.
I gathered up my courage to eat the thing, and I took a bite out of the Pizza. And to my surprise...this is actually damn good. I ended up taking more than one bite, and finished the thing in under a second.
Y/N: That was better than I anticipated.
Steven: I know, right? Isn't Pizza the best?
Y/N: Perhaps...
I said as I grabbed another slice of Pizza, and I took another bite out of it. An hour or so, we finished our Pizzas, and we headed out of the shop.
Change Scene
Steven: Come on! You're gonna love donuts!
Y/N: Slow down, kid.
I said as I kept walking behind him, and he skips to the other building that's in front of us. The...what is that thing atop? It's some sort of cylinder with smooth sides, and a hole in the middle. Humans are weird...but I can't rely judge them either, Gems are just as weird....maybe even weirder, shit. Steve enters the building, and runs inside. I entered the said building as well, and I looked around.
Steven: Hey Lars! Hey Sadie!
Sadie: Hey, Steven. The usual?
Steven: Yes please, 3 donuts with vanilla filling, and actually, add another just in case! I have a friend with me who would like to try!
Y/N: Not friends. You still have a lot of convincing to do.
Lars: Oh great, another Space Rock Alien thingy shows up
Y/N: You got a problem with that, asshole?
Steven: O-okay, Painite. Try not to attack anyone, I know you're supposed to be a weapon, but try not to do anything rash?
Y/N: I know what I'm doing, don't tell me what to do, Half-Breed.
Steven: Right, anyway, you wanna order something?
Y/N: You do know I have no damn clue what I have to do, correct?
Steven: Oh, right. Can you add in a chocolate donut in the bag as well? It's for him.
Sadie: Sure thing! Here you go.
She then grabbed a bag under the counter, and there were already 4 donuts inside, and she added another one, and this one has a chocolate brown texture at the top. How the Hell did she even manage to do that in such a small time? Or maybe she did it while we were talking? Either way, there are no complaints.
Steven handed me the bag the moment he got it from Sadie, and I grabbed the one with the chocolate on top. I took a bite out of it and...Starsdamn, this thing is sweet.
Y/N: Stars-damned. This is sweet as...I don't even know what to say. You eat this on a daily basis? This thing could wreck your teeth. And possibly make you sick if you eat too much.
Steven: Why do you even know so much about humans if it's your first time here?
Y/N: Well...Stars damnit, I once had a Peridot with me teach me about this back in Basic Orientation. I think it had something to do with you guys eating too much, and you guys get sick? I have no damn clue, it's been 8,000 years since the last Basic Orientation I had. And no one would dare go to basic orientation with me either.
Sadie: Woah, 8,000 years? You must be old.
Lars: Damn old.
Y/N: I have no clue if that's a compliment or not. But I'll let it slide. And to be clear, I am 15,000 years.
Sadie: Oh wow! You must know a lot of things!
Y/N:...And did a lot of things. My advice? Enjoy the bliss of ignorance while you can. There are some things out there that are just too... incomprehensible for your minds.
Sadie:...Riiiight...
Lars: This guy's really weird.
Steven: Anyway, thanks for the donuts!
I then proceeded to give the donut to Steven, as to say I don't want it. He grins and he takes the whole thing, and ate the entire donut, or at least what was left of it, with one bite.
Change Scene
The rest of the day was...quite interesting. We went to a place called an "Arcade" and...Steven was supposed to be banned from some games from there? What did this kid even do to deserve that? Then we went to this...weird kid...little shit's eerie...those eyes...empty eyes...
I'm currently sitting on the seaside, listening to the waves, the birds flying over me. I sighed as I take in the scenery of the beach...my thoughts were correct...this could have been a beautiful Garden World for Pink...in fact, the best Garden World the Empire has even seen...but alas, this was her first colony...and the Diamonds didn't approve of Pink's first colony being a Garden World...
Y/N: Now I see why Pink wanted to convince the Diamonds to convert this world into a Garden World instead...but I know damn well, she didn't deserve to be shattered like that...damn you, Rose Quartz...you're so much of a coward, you're letting your boy face all the problems you made...pathetic.
I then heard footsteps, and I looked back and saw Steven walking right beside me. He sat right next to me cross legged, and he fell silent, trying to think of a topic for me and him to talk. I paid no mind to it, and went back to...looking at this place, that will soon be blown to pieces by the Diamonds.
Steven: Soo...how you liking Earth so far?
Y/N: I failed to see a reason as to why I should stay...
Steven: But-
Y/N: The things you showed me, are things that you yourself enjoy. Don't get me wrong, I liked it....but it won't be enough to cut it. And now, I know what I have to do...
I stood up, and I summoned my wings, and turned to Steven.
Y/N: I will tear... everything down in this world...and I will claim this world, in the name of the Yellow Court...in the name of The Gem Empire...and Pink Diamond.
Steven: You can't just kill everyone in this planet! They did nothing to you!
Y/N:...A simple price to pay. I won't be able to complete my objective...but in turn, I will give the Diamonds something even better...a Garden World...and I will turn this planet, plagued by your kind, into one.
Steven: No...PLEASE-!
I took to the skies, and I held my hand out. My hand started glowing a bright orange light, and momentarily the sound 9f something charging up can be heard. Then, a beam of blinding light can be seen coming from my hand, and I directed the beam to the nearby town that Steven showed me.
It was just about to make contact with the said town, and I remained a cold blooded, yet empty stare towards the town. Feeling not a bit of remorse or hesitation. Then, I instinctively turned my head to my right, and I was met with a shield thrown to my face. I held my head in pain with both hands, stopping the beam from hitting the town.
I shook my head, and shook away the pain. I looked down, and saw Steven, summoning another shield. I scowled at him, and he sweat dropped the moment he saw my face. I summoned my wrist blades, and I dive bombed down towards where he was, and reared back both of my hands for an incoming air slash.
Steven barely dodges it, but he stepped to the side. I landed on the sand, and faced him, but I still slid back a bit due to how fast I was going. I flew after him again, and he summoned a bubble around him to protect himself. I immediately shifted my wrist blades into my gauntlets, and smashed his bubble to pieces the moment I punched it, which in turn, sent him flying to the cliff.
Y/N: You will not stop me from doing my task! I will claim this planet to be part of the Gem Empire, and none of you rebellious rocks will stop me!
I then tried to take off again, but I felt a whip wrap around my foot. I looked down to see Amethyst and her whip wrapped around my foot. I smiled and I flew up anyway, dragging her along with me.
Amethyst: WOOOOOOAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!
I then stopped midair, and she flung forward. She was thrown to the town that I was aiming to destroy, and rid of humans. I saw her hit one of the buildings, and I proceeded to unwrap my leg. I was then met with a spear, the damn thing barely missing me, and I see my eyes in the reflection. I looked down and to my side and saw Pearl throwing spears at me.
Pearl: Get away from that town!
Y/N: Make me, cunt!
I held my hand out, and started shooting small beams of light towards Pearl. She backflips away from the beams, barely dodging them. I then snarled at he RI response to what she's doing, and I extended both my hands out, and sent a continuous beam of light towards her direction. Pearl reacted and she immediately ran and hid behind a rock for cover.
Y/N: You're clever, as expected from a Pearl. But it won't be enough to stop me.
I then proceeded to do another dive bomb, and I aimed for the giant rock that Pearl was behind. I reared my right hand back, and delivered a shattering punch, breaking the rocks apart. Pearl threw herself forward as an attempt to keep herself away from the debris. She fell on her behind, and she started crawling back still facing me, and I started walking towards her, menacingly.
Y/N: I told you, it won't work.
Pearl: Not even as a distraction?
Then, Garnet descends from the sky, and tried to hit me with a punch in order to stop me. Without looking, I stepped to the side, and I used my left hand to grip onto her hand that was supposed to hit me, and I held on tightly. I pulled her down with the said hand, and I immediately placed my hand at the back of her head, and slammed her head down to the ground, causing the ground beneath to shake and shatter.
I let go of her hand and removed my hand from the back of her head, and I flipped her facing upwards, both the Gems on her palms showing to me. I spread both of my wings, and aimed the sharp edges of the crystal feathers, and attempted to drive the sharp edge into her Gem.
Then, I heard something flying towards me, presumably something sharp. I turn around and I caught a sharp steel, presumably a part of the ship I used. I looked to where it came from, and I saw Peridot, with many more steel sheets turned into projectiles.
Peridot: Leave me friends alone, clod! Or I'll poof you myself!
Y/N: Big talk for someone who's the size of a Ruby.
She threw her arms forward and the metal sheets started flying towards me, almost as fast as a bullet. I used my wings and deflected any incoming projectile in my direction. Peridot, seems to be...walking back, leading me somewhere? Hmm... curious. I kept walking forward to see what it was, it probably won't be enough to stop me...but Stars how I want to kick myself in the head for saying that.
I then felt pairs of hands take hold of my legs. I looked down to see I was standing on a puddle. Immediately, I knew this was the Lazuli's working. I was about to fly away, but I was instead thrown to the ocean. And as I was over the water's surface, chains made out of water wrapped around my legs, and my hands, then my torso.
The chains pulled me down underwater, and it kept doing so, and In starting to lose sight of the light of the sun. I kept flapping my wings up, but to no avail. I take in a deep breathe, and I used my hands, and blasted myself forward using my pyrokinesis. I used it on my feet as well to propel myself forward even more. Eventually, I made it to the surface, and I stopped using my flames and used my wings instead.
Y/N: Now you're starting to piss me off.
Lapis started sending water spikes in my direction, and I started dodging every incoming spike being flung at me. I snarled at her and I used my flames and propelled myself forward even faster. Lapis used her hydrokinesis, and pulled up a waterfall in front of her as an attempt to slow me down.
I punched right through it, and she widened her eyes in shock and fear. I grabbed her by the head, and I dragged her with me. I started flying over the sand, and I pushed her head down on the sand and started dragging her at the same time. I got to the cliff and I pinned her against it, leaving a massive crack on the wall in the process. I reared my hand back to deliver a powerful punch, but I felt Amethyst's whip wrap around my fist and she started pulling.
I groaned and I grabbed the part of the whip that wasn't wrapped around my hand, and I pulled, I slammed her into the wall. I then faced Lapis again, and then I was met with a headbutt, and I held my face in pain. Lapis used her legs and she pushed my off her. I landed on the sand, and I was then met with a punch to the face from Garnet, sending me flying a few meters back.
I then got in the stomach with a shield from the Half-Breed, and I groaned in annoyance. I saw Amethyst, spin dashing towards me. I waited for her until she got close enough to me. I reared my leg back, and I delivered a powerful kick to her, sending her flying over the cliff.
Garnet got behind me and she swept my off the my feet, and I hit the sand. She raised both her fists to deliver a powerful hammerfist, but I immediately sucker punched her in the face, shattering her glasses. I used my legs and pushed her off of me, sending her away from me.
I got up, and I immediately saw Pearl aiming her spear at me. Her spear started glowing, and I widened my eyes. Beams of laser started flying from her spear and I used my wings and flew myself away from before she could even hit me. I saw that she was on the edge of the cliff, and so I used War Smith, and I materialize a massive sword. I reared my hand back, and delivered a backhanded slice towards the cliff, sending a vertical line of energy cutting through anything, cutting the edge off of the cliff entirely, causing Pearl to fall to the ground.
I then saw Lapis flying after me, and she formed massive hands made out of water. I readied the sword in my hand, and I sent a projectile in a form of a vertical blade, cutting through the water hands like a hot knife through butter.
I then reared my hand back, and I threw the sword to Lapis' direction, she dodged it and she looked to where the sword was about to land. The sword made contact to the wall of the cliff and the moment it dug onto the wall, it started glowing. Little did she know, I turned that thing into a grenade by imbuing it with my own power. Lapis widened her eyes in shock and she pulled up a water wall to protect herself from the blast.
I took this chance and I flew after Lapis, I delivered a dropkick to her, and sent her flying to the cliff wall. She fell on the ground with a groan, and I looked around and saw the destruction around me.
Y/N:...Damnit. Might as well finish this off.
I flew high up into the sky, and I held my hand over my head, and opened my palm. Then, slowly, a glowing ball of flame...similar to a small star, formed in my hand. Not only that, it kept growing and growing, until it was five times my size.
Y/N: May you find comfort in the next life, may the Stars have mercy on you...because I will not...I would say I'm sorry...
I reared my hand back, and threw the miniature star from my hand.
Y/N: But I'm too far gone now.
The miniature star was sent flying towards the town. I turn around, hoping not to see the destruction...and not hear the screams. Then, out of the corner of my eye I spot him, the Half-Breed, Steven. He jumps high up into the sky, and he was face to face with the incoming burning ball of flame. His belly button started glowing, and a giant shield, enough to cover the miniature star from hitting the town.
The moment the ball of flame hits the shield, it exploded right on contact. I snarled and I flew right at the shield and delivered a punch. Cracks became visible on the shield, and the Half Breed is struggling to maintain it.
Y/N: Well how about that?! You never fail to surprise me!
I reared my hand again and delivered another punch, causing the crack to worsen and change in size.
Y/N: Come on, then! Tell me things that are worth my time! Show me the things that are worth my attention! Come on!
I reared my hand back again, and kept barraging the shield with punches.
Y/N: Come on, tell me! TELL ME!!!
My last line was done with both of my fist raised to the air, and I brought it down on his shield, finally shattering it to pieces. The Half-Breed went into a state of shock, and he froze in fear. I grabbed him by the collar of his shirt, and said;
Y/N: As expected. There IS nothing here worth my time, worth my attention, and worth fighting for with my Stars-damned life. You've wasted my time long enough.
I landed down on the ground, and I set the boy down on the sound and he remained silent. I started walking away, and towards the town. It may have been wondrous to have tried new things here...but none of it will be enough for me to stay.
I heard a groan behind me, and I stopped dead in my tracks. I let out a sigh and rubbed my temples. I turned around and saw the boy standing back up again.
Steven: If...you're going to destroy the Earth, then you'll have to go through me!
I scowled and I turned away and kept walking. Steven grits his teeth, and he summoned another shield and started charging at me. This kid never listens. He raised his shield up in front of him, and kept charging at me. When he was close enough, I summoned my gauntlets and delivered a backhanded hammer-fist to his shield.
The impact was enough to shatter the shield, and hit the boy by the chest. He winced in pain, and sent him flying to the cliff wall. Finally, he fell to the ground, not unconscious, but he was down...and that's good enough.
As I was just about to walk away, and tear everything down in my path, I was met with a guitar to the face. Didn't even make me flinch. I looked down and saw Greg.
Greg: You hit my kid, and I'd do the same to you!
I was about to hit Greg, on the spot. But we stopped the moment we started hearing something fly at my direction in very fast speeds. I caught it with one hand, and I look at it...a ball? A hard one at that. I look to see where it came from, and saw an entire mob in front of me.
Sadie: Leave Steven and the Gems alone!
Lars: You're not even the same as them, you're worse! Get out of our town!
There are even ones that I've never met before, such as a teenager wearing sunglasses and a jacket, and a pale, thin teenager. The pale one was holding a bat, and the one with glasses of what seems to be a wrench. I see Jenny holding a shovel, and Kiki holding a hockey stick. I looked even closer, and we see Onion, holding a fucking bat with nails. Everyone that was in front of me has weapons in their hands. Seeing this, I couldn't help but chuckle.
Y/N: I had forgotten how charming the bravado of organics could be. Tell me, what would twenty thousand pounds of torque do to your... what is it... spinal column? Are you a species that will burst like a sack of meat, twist into a pile of agony, or snap in half? Well... no matter, I can find out in short order.
My intimidating words had their effect. They all looked terrified of me. And yet... they did not flee. These were no warriors... they clearly had no training. The father I could understand; he was trying to protect his son... but the rest?
Y/N: chuckles I have to say, I'm impressed that you still stood your ground...but-
I reared my hand back, and I aimed for Greg. Greg stood his ground, and Steven immediately threw himself forward and formed a bubble around him and his father.
With one punch from me, it immediately shattered the bubble, and sent both the Father and Son to the mob.
Y/N: Do you really think I would stop because you all joined forces? chuckles It makes things more fun this way!~
I took the the skies, and held our hand out,
Y/N: Let's see if you still choose to stand if I obliterate you where you stand!
My hand started glowing, and it was a bright orange color. It seemed to be getting brighter and brighter by every passing second, charging up a powerful attack.
Peridot: Hey! Over here, clod!
I groaned, and I looked to my side, and I was met with Lapis, giving me a dread stare, terrifying, but it has no effect on me.
Lapis: Did you forget about me?!
She was about to use her Hydokinesis on us, but we immediately grab her by the throat, and delivered a powerful headbutt, the headbutt was enough to knock someone out, but she managed to take it, and she only held her head in pain.
Y/N: Don't worry. I never did.
I threw her to the ground, and she hit the sand hard. I scowled at her because of how cocky she was. Then, she stands up, and she smirks. Something's not right.
Pearl: Steven, now!
I immediately looked to where Steven was, and I saw that the mob made way to what seems like a Canon...oh fuck..an Era 1 anti air Canon? Steven aimed the Canon at me, and it's already charged up. I couldn't do squat as my charging up was interrupted.
Steven: If every pork chop were perfect, we wouldn't have hotdogs!
Y/N:.....What-
I was cut off, when the fucking thing fired. I then held my hand in front of me, and I formed a crystal layer over my Gem, to protect it from the blast.
Y/N:...smiles I fucked up.
The projectile hit me, and I was immediately blown out of the sky, and I hit the sand, smoking hot.
Pearl: I-Is it over... did we win?
Amethyst: I'm not taking any chances!
She spin dashed over to the smouldering Painite. Garnet adjusted her glasses, and gasped in horror.
Garnet: Amethyst, no!
Amethyst jumped up, drawing her weapon in thr hopes of landing a clean blow to take me out...And I grabbed her gem, and gave a squeeze, sending a spiderweb of cracks through her gem. She let out a horrid cry of agony.
Amethyst: AAAAAAAAAAAAGH!! Gasp pant UUUUUUUUUAAAAHHH!! IT HURTS, OH FUCK, IT HURTS REAL BAD!!
I slowly tightened my grip. I was made a mockery of once... I will not be mocked again! The sound of her Gem starting to crack and shatter was audible, even over her own shrieks of pain and terror.
Y\N: If you want to break out the big guns... I'll just go from treating you like Targets... to treating you like fellow Warriors... you didn't want this.
Suddenly, the one called Steven shouted at me: Please! You don't have to do this!!
Y\N: Stop talking on the battlefield.
Steven: I know you don't want to shatter her, I know you're sick of being a weapon!
Y\N: Your mind games won't work on me!
Steven: I know because, why else would you be crying right now!?
I blunk in surprise, my grip on Amethst weakening, letting her catch her breath as the pain subsided. My vision was blurry and my cheeks felt wet. I was crying... I hadn't noticed from the fury of the fight...
And now that I had, suddenly, powerul emotions raged in me... no... shut up!
I let go of Amethyst, who scurried away. I looked at Steven and saw something... unfamiliar to me. There was anger, yes but... no pity... no doubt... no hate... just a desire to help me... a genuine desire to aid me in my vulnerable moment... he reminds me of... Pink.
Steven: Let me help you.
I think for a moment.
Y/N: You get one hour... and if you fail to "help" me as you put it, or if any of you try even once to harm me... I will destroy all sentient life on this continent as punishment.
Steven: You wouldn't do that-
Y/N: You just saw me willingly about to shatter Amethyst...look me in the eyes.
I widened my eyes, and gave him a direct stare, shooting fear down his spine.
Y/N: Do I look like I wouldn't ?
Steven: Fine....come with me then...leave the Gems and Beach City out of this.
Y/N: Remember...one hour. I already have wasted an entire day on this rock. All you did was show me things you enjoy...don't fail to convince me, Steven...lest I'll make things...worse...
Steven started walking through the crowd, and I followed him, avoiding any eye contact. I looked to my side and I saw Peridot.
Peridot: Grrrrrr!
Ah, so that how you want it? Fine.
Y/N: GRRRRRRRR!!!
I growled back at her, crystal spikes coming out of my back, and my eyes turning red. Peridot yelps, and she runs behind Lapis.
Y/N: Pathetic.
I continued to follow Steven, leaving all the people behind us to themselves.
Pearl: This is hopeless, there's no convincing a Warmonger like him!
Garnet:...What would you suggest us to do? He survived a blast from Rose's Canon, and he easily took us out one by one. And if he makes a mistakes he makes sure to improve and never does it again...but Steven....Steven always...does things that are deemed impossible...it's better that Steven handles this, rather than fighting him off...I see it in his eyes...he doesn't want to fight...he just...wants to stop.
Steven took me to an open field. I admired the flora around me as I waited for him to respond. He took a deep breath, and looked at me.
Steven: What do you want out of life?
Y\N: To serve the empire and the Diamonds.
Steven: That is an action and a purpose. Not really a desire or a goal.
I blinked in surprise. He was correct.
Steven: What... do you... want out of life? And do you think you could accomplish it in the Empire?
I... knew the answer to both... and...
Y\N: No, I couldn't achieve my desires in the Empire. My task of serving the Empire conflicts with it.
Steven: I know. So what do you want.
I... I...
Y/N: This is foolish.
Steven: You aren't a coward, so don't run from this.
Y\N: I run from nothing!
Steven: Then answer the question. What do you want?
I can't... I could not... It won't happen... Stop... Stop making me think about this.
Y\N: You are running out of time, Steven! Do not think I will spare your friends just because you couldn't think of a way to convince me!
Steven: Don't think I'll stop asking till you say it.
Y\N: I will make you watch as I slay them!
Steven: It would give me more time to ask you: What. Do. You. Want?
I summon my Wrist-blades, and bring the points a mere centimeter from his eyes in a swift motion. He neither blinks nor wavers, as if he knew he was in no danger from me.
Y\N: I will sever your vocal cords that you can't ask that damned question again!!
Steven: An admition of fear then. So why do you fear the question?
I grab my head in pain. It hurts...
Y\N: Because it's an impossible want!
It hurts, it hurts!
Steven: And why is your desire impossible?
Ithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurts
I fall to my knees and yell up to the sky.
Y/N: BECAUSE NO ONE WOULD LOVE A MONSTER LIKE ME! BECAUSE ALL I DO IS HURT PEOPLE AND KILL! THAT'S WHY IT'S IMPOSSIBLE!!
The silence as deafening but Steven continue to just look at me calmly. He gave a faint, genuine smile.
Steven: Well if you have to be a monster to serve the Empire, maybe it is monstrous, not you?
I... that shouldn't... make so much sense...
Y/N:...I never wanted it to be like this...you know? I...yearned for peace. But was met with...this instead. I was forced back and forth in this...hellish life of mine...a life that...leads people to death and damnation...the worst part wasn't the screams...but the silence...because in that silence...I only had myself for company. Me and my thoughts...me and my thoughts left to bask for an eternity while we contemplated my place in Hell.
Steven: Did you do something about it?
Y/N: Each and every day I'd told myself that I'd do something; That I'd quit. Leave. Never look back. I never did. I kept getting rewarded with another day to live in this damned Empire and I kept going home... and that's not the worst part of it...but living with yourself. It's not the knowledge of having a hand that murdered so many people...it's the fact that...I can still sleep at night...well...most night, I can't sleep at all.
Steven looks at me, and he sees years pouring out of my eyes, and I kept...talking and talking. Letting my thoughts out.
Y/N: I close my eyes...and all I see was that pile of shards. Towering skyward over a red sky...or was it a dark sky...? I forgot...then the raining down of a thousand souls....dancing in the wind and the night sky.
Steven: Painite...
Y/N:....There comes a point where the faces of the people you've wronged become too many to recognize in a dream or nightmare. They merge and they change and they become all consuming. No longer recognisable individuals, but an entire consciousness within your thoughts.
Steven:...
Y/N: I was once on a mission in a Frost World, tasked to take out a rebel force. In front of me...I heard the laughter of a Gem, and she reached her hand out, and let a snowflake fall into her hand...melting into nothing within a few seconds. Amidst all the screams, the curses, the cries. The sound of that laughter is what haunts me the most...
Steven: You shattered them...didn't you?
Y/N: You want me to beg for forgiveness? Forget it. I don't want it, I don't deserve it. Whatever it is that is coming for me after my death...I embrace it as inevitable and just...
Steven then sits beside me, and puts a hand on my back.
Steven: You don't need to beg for forgiveness...but you do need to work on it...and redeem yourself...you're this low already, how low can you still get? There comes a point that...the only way to go is up...so how about you start going up instead of going deeper?
He held his hand out, and he smiles.
Steven: Let's start over; Hi, I'm Steven! You are?
I sniffled, and I wiped my tears away.
Y/N: Painite...Painite of the Yellow Court.
Steven: Well, hi, Painite! Welcome to earth, you're gonna love it here! Welcome to your new life, where you can start over and be happy!
Start over....
Be happy...?
I covered my face and started weeping again...why...why does this...child go to lengths, such lengths, to forgive a man he's never met, and forgive a man who has murdered so many...?
Y/N: Why...sob why do you want to forgive me?! Give me a chance?! Why...why do you have to forgive a murderer such as myself?!
Steven: Because I have a chance to help you, set you right...and we can be friends.
Y/N:...Friend...are you sure you want me..? I've...done so many bad things...are you sure...you want to be my friend?
Steven: Yes! Of course! You wanted to be free from Homeworld! You don't have to do their dirty work anymore, you can stay here, and work on yourself!
I sniffled, and I wiped my tears away, and I felt his hand rub my back.
Y/N: Thank you...sob thank you so much.
Steven: So... did I convince you?
Y\N: Yes, Steven... you and your planet are safe... I... I want to... I want to enjoy myself here... I want... A second chance.
Steven: And you'll get one! But I really need to go help Amethyst now so...
I grimace, and nod.
Y\N: Right... well, best go tell them the news...
Steven: You're coming with me.
Y\N: But-
Steven: Nuh-uh, no running, You start over with me, you start over with everyone.
Y/N:...I can't convince you, can't I?
Steven: Nope.
Y/N: Starsdamnit. Fine.
I stood up and I started walking back with him. But was then met with the Crystal Gems.
Pearl: Steven! Get away from him you mon-
Y/N: Oh shut up, you glorified butler.
Steven: Pearl, no! He's gonna stay here!
Pearl: He's going to WHAT?!
Y/N: This is one of the reasons as to why I shouldn't be here.
Garnet steps in front of me, and she examined me. I stood there, silently...and a tad bit awkward. She held her hand out, anticipating a handshake.
Garnet: Welcome to Earth, Painite.
I hesitantly gave my hand to her, and in response she squeezed my hand a bit, and we shook hands. I almost fell on my ass because...this is the first time someone I don't know hasn't acted or shown any hostility against me...it's nice...
???: YAAAAAGGHHH!!! nom nom nom nom nom
I looked down and saw Peridot, biting my arm. I held her up, and faced her.
Y/N: Let go of my arm, please? I'm not something you can eat.
Peridot: Hmmm...no!
She said as she bit my arm again.
Y/N: Ow.
I then felt a leg go in between my legs, and I looked down seeing Amethyst kicking my junk. I didn't flinch, but fucking Hell that shit hurts!
Amethyst: Low blow, asshole!
Y/N: I felt that, but I guess this is a proper payback.
I then felt a giant water hand grab me by my torso, and threw me to the ocean. I looked up and saw Lapis flying on too of us, with a smirk on her face, and I was not having any of this shit.
Y/N: You know, I'm starting to regret staying here.
I could shatter them... it would be easy. The Lapis and Peridot have no fighting skills, they leave themselves so open. The Amethyst is no match for me...
But I have a better idea.
I summon my wings and land fast on the ground.
Y/N: You want to hurt me? Fine.
I go limp, falling to the ground.
Y/N: Get it out of your system.
They looked... confused.
Peridot: What are you doing?
Y/N: I'm not fighting back. I won't defend myself. I won't even fucking stand. Go ahead. Do what you want. Shatter me; I've stayed out of hell long enough.
Lapis looked almost understanding. Peridot looked remorseful. Amethyst scoffed and crossed her arms.
Amethyst: Ya kinda sucked all the fun outta this... I dont wanna kick ya when your down...
Y/N:...Do you want to though?
Amethyst: Kinda. But I'm not a dick.
Y/N: Fair enough.
I stood up and I dusted myself clean. I then heard Amethyst run at me, and I stepped to the side, and I extend my leg, and she caught her legs on my foot, and she tripped.
Amethyst: Jerk!
Y/N: And you're a backstabbing cunt. You won't hit me when I'm down but as soon as I get up you come and kick me. That's not really any better, Amethyst.
Amethyst: I mean, it kinda is?
Y/N: No, shut up.
Pearl: That's enough, both of you. You're free to stay, but there's no way you're staying in the house.
Steven: Aww, why not?
Pearl: Because...!
Pearl turned to me, and she...fell silent and she kept looking at me. She then turned to Steven.
Pearl: Because we don't really have a place for him to stay in.
Y/N: It's quite alright. Don't really feel the want to sleep. I'll be meditating if you're wondering. Over there.
I said as I pointed to the top of the cliff statue, and they all looked up. I summoned my wings and I flew to the peak of it. I landed and I retracted my wings and I kneeled and I breathe deeply. But before that, I looked down and saw all of the Gems go back inside their temple. I paid no more mind into it, and I went to meditating. I looked to the sky and saw Stars and the Moon...
Y/N: How come Homeworld is never this beautiful...?
I just closed my eyes, and I wondered...what would be in star for me now that I'm here...finally having a second chance?
I hope to the Stars I never make the same mistakes again...If I did I would never be able to live with myself again.
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